Fingertip scanner stops drunk drivers in their tracks

Sensors embedded in car steering wheels will scan drivers' fingers and prevent the car from starting, if they are found to be drunk

The new device scans the fingertip of the driver to verify his or her identity

Motorists could be asked to verify their identity and fitness to drive using
an infrared finger scanner before being able to start their cars. The
technology is aimed at combating car crime and reducing drink driving.

Engineers have developed a system that uses a tiny scanner embedded in the
start button common in many modern cars. The device scans the fingertip of
the driver to verify their identity and, using spectroscopy, to calculate
their blood alcohol level. It links to the car’s computer and locks the
engine if it detects that the driver is over the limit.

The process takes three seconds. The maker of the device, an American company
called TruTouch Technologies, claims it is more accurate than a
breathalyser. The company already sells a similar device that tests alcohol
levels in employees in the workplace.

Last month TruTouch won a $2.5m (£1.6m) grant from the National Highway
Traffic